Agri Segretum

Todi, Umbria, Italy

Agri Segretum is an organic farm and winery nestled in the beautiful Tiber River Valley near Todi, Umbria. Lorenzo de Monaco and Eileen Holland discovered this 'secret spot' (La Segreta) in 2009 and purchased about 70 acres of land. They planted their first vines in 2008, focusing on indigenous grape varieties. The estate cultivates certified organic grapes and has remained committed to organic farming methods for over a decade.

Agri Segretum is approximately a two-hour drive from Florence or Rome. It is located in the heart of the relatively new Todi DOC, about 25 kilometres southwest of Montefalco. The vineyard sits at an elevation of 300 meters above sea level, oriented towards the southwest, basking in the Mediterranean climate.

Agri Segretum represents a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation in Umbrian winemaking, offering wines that truly express the terroir of this beautiful Italian region.

Vineyard Practices

Agri Segretum's approach to viticulture is rooted in respect for the land and local traditions. They cultivate indigenous varieties such as Sangiovese, Sagrantino, Malvasia Nera, Colorino, and Grechetto. The estate employs organic and biodynamic principles, planting barley and clover between rows to provide nitrogen and avoid fertilizer use5. All work is done by hand, from vine management to harvesting, with local community members often participating in the grape picking.

Winemaking Philosophy

The winery's production is minuscule, at about 2,800 cases annually. Its focus is on minimal intervention, using spontaneous fermentation with native yeasts and manual work in the cellar. The wines are allowed to develop naturally, and gravity filtration is used when necessary.

The Wine Portfolio

Agri Segretum's wines have garnered attention for their exceptional quality and authenticity. The estate's commitment to organic farming, indigenous grape varieties, and minimal intervention winemaking has positioned it as a notable producer in the emerging Todi DOC.

Agri Segretum produces a range of wines, each named after Umbrian vernacular terms:

• Cinino ("Tiny One")
• Pottarello ("Little kid")
• Marmocchio ("Rascal")
• Freghino ("Teenager")

They also produce a special cru wine known as HTH, crafted from 100% Sagrantino and only made in exceptional vintages.

Community and Lifestyle

Agri Segretum embodies a lifestyle that honours traditional values. The estate includes villa rentals and produces organic extra virgin olive oil alongside its wines. The owners' children have grown up participating in local traditions, playing in the narrow streets of Collazzone, and enjoying meals prepared with ingredients from their land.